Definition: Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are compound semiconductor devices
that convert electricity to light when biased in the forward direction. Because of its
small size, ruggedness, fast switching, low power, and compatibility with integrated
circuitry, LED was developed for many indicator-type applications.
Today, advanced high-brightness LEDs are the next generation of lighting
technology and are currently being installed in a variety of lighting applications.
As a result of breakthroughs in material efficiencies and optoelectronic packaging
design, LEDs are no longer used in just indicator lamps. They are used as
a light source for illumination for monochromatic applications such as traffic
signals, brake lights, and commercial signage.
LED Benefits
- Energy efficient
- Compact size
- Low wattage
- Low heat
- Long life
- Extremely robust
- Compatible with integrated circuits

FIGURE 3.20 Parts of an LED.
LED Structure - Chip
- Lead frame
- Gold wire
- Epoxy resin (plastic mold package)
- Cathode
- Anode
| TABLE 3.3 Semiconductors for LEDs |
| General | | GaP | GaN | GaAs | GaAlAs | | Green, Red | Blue | Red, Infrared | Red, Infrared | |
| Super | | GaAIAs | InAsP | GaN | InGaNGaP | | Red | Yellow, Red | Blue | Green Green | |
| Ultra | | GaAIAs | InGaAlP | GaN | InGaN | | Red | Yellow, Orange,
Red | Blue | Green | |
Classification: Classification of LEDs are defined by spectrum.
(i) Visible LED: Based on max. spectrum, produces red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and white.
(ii) Infrared LED: (IR LED).
Applications of LEDs
Visible LED: General-purpose application in various industries including indication
devices for electronic appliances, measuring instruments, etc.
Bi-color (dual color) LED: Charger for cellular phones, showcase boards, traffic boards on highways, etc.
High & Ultra Brightness LED: Full-color display for indoor/outdoor, automotive
signal lamps, high-mount lamps, indoor lamps, traffic signal lamps,
etc.
Infrared LED: With high output capacity, IR LED is used in remote controls,
IrDa ( Infrared Data Storage Devices), etc.
© 2006-2026 Infinity Science Press. All rights reserved.